Uche Ikpeazu is rapidly becoming a huge favourite at Cambridge United as he uses his strength and skill to give opposition defenders nightmares.

The former Watford youngster was handed his first start in Tuesday night's Checkatrade Trophy success over Middlesbrough's youngsters at the Cambs Glass Stadium.

And, having made seven previous substitute appearances, the big man took his chance with both hands as he grabbed his second goal for the club and produced an excellent all-round performance.

He took his goal well with his left foot, but it was his play outside the penalty area that was most impressive, regularly bringing the ball under his spell and bringing team-mates into play.

One pass was sprayed out wide to Piero Mingoia with real panache, and he easily outmuscled his marker and got his head up to create an opening for Jake Gosling.

Uche Ikpeazu in the Checkatrade Trophy for Cambridge United against Middlesbrough under 23s. (Image: Richard Patterson)

He also showed his growing confidence by regularly coming short and demanding the ball from colleagues, as well as creating a couple of chances for himself from nothing.

One of the players benefiting from having Ikpeazu's presence up front is midfielder Max Clark, who is enjoying being able to look up and try to find the striker.

"He holds the ball up well and he's a big threat up there," said Clark. "I think he adds something different to what we've got up front. He's a good player and I'm sure he's got more to offer as well."

The U's supporters have clearly liked what they have seen from Ikpeazu so far, with the forward's efforts earning him plenty of admiration in the stands.

And the forward's personality around the club has also helped him settle in – the players could be heard chanting "Uche, Uche" in the dressing room after he had created the winner for Mingoia in last Saturday's victory over Accrington.

"He's a good lad. He gets his head down and he works hard," said Clark. "He's liked by everyone. He's just a nice lad overall and he's good to have in the changing room."